US Dept. of Edu gives money to EASTCONN

HAMPTON, Conn. (AP) - One of Connecticut's six regional education service centers will receive more than $560,000 for programs to enroll more low-income students into advanced placement courses.

The U.S. Department of Education is giving the money to EASTCONN, which is based in Hampton. EASTCONN runs magnet schools and other programs in several eastern Connecticut school districts.

The grant is part of $6.6 million in federal money being spread nationwide to help low-income students succeed in advanced placement classes, particularly in science, technology and math.

EASTCONN can use the money to help local schools train teachers, develop courses, buy books and supplies and access AP courses online.